Homeowners

Though you can’t always see it, we all have waterfront property; pipes that leave our homes deliver water – and whatever is put in it – to the very same river that we and millions of others drink from. Let’s help make sure that our water stays safe and healthy by following a few simple guidelines:

• Use environmentally-friendly household chemicals and cleaners because your pipes are linked to the river.
• Take hazardous household materials to a disposal depot. Don’t dump them in sink or bathtub drains.
• Reduce your water use, especially during heavy rain events when local sewage treatment plants get overloaded.
• Refrain from non-essential use of lawn and garden chemicals including pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides.
• Use natural compost instead of chemical fertilizers on your lawn. If you have to use fertilizers, do not apply when rain is forecasted.
• In winter, keeping ice and snow off your driveway and side walks is important for safety. However, put your sidewalk and driveway on a low salt diet.
• Build a healthy lawn. The key to a weed- and pest-free lawn is to build strength in your grass.

About

Ottawa Riverkeeper is an independent voice for the Ottawa River. We work to protect, promote and improve the health of the Ottawa River and its tributaries.